Add as a preferred source on Google

UC Berkeley: Moffitt Library Renovation

  • 09/01/17
UC Berkley

PHOTOS © JASPER SANIDAD

Moffitt Library at the University of California, Berkeley, designed by architect John Carl Warnecke in the 1960s, was a cutting-edge library for graduate studies when it opened. But over the years it had fallen far short of providing today’s students with the type of library and research space they need to support academic interests. In addition, a renovation that took place in the 1990s to bring the building up to code seismically resulted in a library that was dark and visually enclosed, with no access to the balconies that once offered a connection to the outdoors.

In harmony with the chancellor’s emphasis on enhancing the undergraduate experience and cultivating engagement with the surrounding community, Gensler transformed two floors of Moffitt Library into a distinctive, tech-friendly 24-hour center for learning. One floor is for collaborative, participatory studying comprised of informal open seating areas, small huddle rooms and larger meeting rooms for teamwork, and the other is a quiet floor for concentration and focus, with study tables, individual pods and carrels. The space now allows for flexibility of the curriculum and personal reconfigurability. Meeting the needs of the 21st century, it is equipped with technology and access to data and power.

The new curtain wall created usable area to fortify the student experience — transforming the inaccessible maintenance balcony into usable program space. Each floor offers in-between spaces. The nooks and crannies near the curtain wall make students feel a connection to the outside and address the need for transparency. The project also addresses critical infrastructure and life-safety needs, and creates a foundation for further renovations of the remaining floors.

The project brought a unique challenge as the team implemented new UCOP Policy to install gender-inclusive restrooms in addition to offering the traditional restroom experiences. Wellness is supported at Moffitt via the implementation of food-friendly policies and a meditation/nap room.

This article originally appeared in the issue of .

Featured

  • Brightly Software, XOi Partner for New HVAC Data Solution

    Siemens company Brightly Software recently announced a partnership with data intelligence company XOi to integrate real-time HVAC system data into Brightly’s Asset Essentials CMMS, according to a news release. The integration will allow facilities more insight into HVAC system performance, health, and risk across their operations.

  • Embry-Riddle Breaks Ground on New Office Building

    Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University (ERAU) in Daytona Beach, Fla., recently announced that construction has begun on a new office building for its campus Research Park, according to a news release. The university partnered with Hoar Construction on the 34,740-square-foot Center for Aerospace Technology II (CAT II), which will be used for research and lab purposes.

  • Creating Long-Term Sustainability on College Campuses Through Fair Student Housing

    The quality of student housing can have a significant impact on an individual’s college experience. Today’s higher education institutions face mounting challenges, including declining enrollment, low retention rates between the first and second years, and a rise in student mental health concerns. Thoughtfully designed living spaces can help address these issues by creating environments that promote both academic focus and personal well-being.

  • ClassVR headsets

    Avantis Education Revamps Hardware for ClassVR Solution

    Avantis Education recently announced the launch of two new headsets for its flagship educational VR/AR solution, ClassVR. According to a news release, the Xcelerate and Xplorer headsets expand the company’s offerings into higher education while continuing to meet the evolving needs of K–12 users.

Digital Edition